When I think about our purpose of inspiring everyone to run and be active, I envision countless runners from all walks of life from every corner of the world on the run together, their feet together covering endless miles. Running, like sports, unites people.

When Brooks was offered the opportunity to sponsor the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, I knew immediately we had to do this. It was the perfect fit for our brand and a chance to deepen our support of the sport and the athletes who’ve worked so hard to earn a ticket to compete. There’s incredible synergy between the USA Games’ charter of providing inspirational experiences and modeling inclusion for all and what we’re doing at Brooks to celebrate and support all who run.

Running is the most inclusive sport the world has ever known and welcomes everyone regardless of your ability, mileage, how often you run or what motivates you. We believe everyone should be able to access and participate in sport—be it running or otherwise—and our sponsorship of the USA Games allows us to honor that belief and share it with you, our community. Running provides a path to strength, self-confidence, health and happiness. And it forges a special bond between everyone who participates as our feet rise and fall together.

As I look ahead to the USA Games, I’m most excited about seeing 3,000 athletes from all over the U.S. giving their all here in Seattle. The finish line at any race is where the every runner’s personal journey—the commitment, the battles, the triumphs, the growth—is expressed, and I can’t wait to see the athletes’ faces as they cross the finish line at the USA Games. Those moments alone will greatly inspire us here at Brooks, and we hope it will do the same runners everywhere.

Thank you Jim. I know,…you are just one guy,….with many pressures,…to make money, and other influences, but somehow I believe this is partially YOU, steering this ship to support the Special Olympics. DO NOT underestimate the crass, but real world positive financial effect of this support. Thanks for this. Daily, I work at a New Balance franchise, and recommend your highly respected and deserving product where appropriate, and will continue to do so. More important than the indirect financial kickback that this support gives, the thought that someone believes in them, these athletes,…..that is powerful.

Hi Gary – Thanks for the note. I can truly state that the decision to partner with Special Olympics USA Games was an easy and unanimous one at Brooks. The mission sync was total plus it is in our backyard allowing now over 300 of our employees and partners to sign up to volunteer. It will be a great event for Seattle and inspiring for all who watch and attend. We are lucky at Brooks to be part of the sports and running world that can and does impact people’s lives. – Jim

I am not runner. I would be one of those guys that say the only good reason to run is because somebody is chasing you. I applaud those that do run because I understand the dedication and commitment it takes. I share the dedication and commitment because I am a Special Olympics Coach and Coordinator.
I applaud Brooks for their partnership with Special Olympics. I know your work there in Seattle during this event will make it a true ONCE IN A LIFETIME event for these athletes. It is only through community support that our athletes survive and often thrive in our communities.
For the 1st time ever, our small community has an athlete participating in The Games. People have come together to support and encourage him. Thank you Brooks for having people to greet our athletes at the finish line in their respective sports.
James Cheely
Barren County Special Olympics
Glasgow, KY